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What You Need for Passion Twists

Passion twists get their soft, slightly undone look from the hair rather than the technique: water wave braiding hair, twisted in two strands, gives a texture that reads as bohemian rather than sleek. They're lighter than locs and faster than braids, which is a large part of the appeal.

The hair is the style

Water wave hair is what makes a passion twist look like a passion twist. Ordinary straight kanekalon twisted the same way gives a Senegalese twist instead, which is a different, glossier look. Buy water wave specifically, and buy it all in one purchase so the wave pattern matches across the head.

How much

Passion twists generally take fewer packs than box braids of a similar size, because the textured hair fills more space per strand. Longer and thicker styles push the count up. As always, a couple of spare packs returned unopened is cheaper than a mid-install shortage.

Technique notes

Two-strand twisting rather than braiding. The twist should be firm enough to hold but not so tight that the root pulls, and the common mistake is over-twisting, which makes the style stiff and shortens how long it looks good. Many people use a small amount of mousse or gel on each section to stop the ends unraveling.

Keeping the texture

Passion twists frizz at the crown and perimeter first. A satin bonnet or scarf at night is the single most effective thing. A light mousse or a spray bottle of water with a little conditioner revives the pattern when it starts looking tired. Avoid heavy oils, which weigh the texture down and flatten the wave.

How long they last

Usually four to six weeks before the roots loosen and the twists start slipping. They come down faster than braids: unravel the twist and cut clear of your own hair. As with any style, wash, deep condition and rest the hair before the next install.